An opposition party asserts that the extensive issuance of residence permits by the Portuguese government requires thorough legal verification and accountability. The party emphasized that without an audit, the process risks being viewed as unregulated or lacking legitimacy. They advocate for parliamentary or external oversight of AIMA to ensure compliance with authorization, integration, and control criteria.
The surge in residence permits, attributed to the resolution of outstanding applications, indicates significant pressure on the system, necessitating additional resources. According to the party, without adequate human resources, logistics, and institutional coordination, this pressure could undermine system efficiency, transparency, and security.
The dissolution of the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service and the establishment of AIMA led to a division between administrative functions and security control roles, which the party argues has weakened the migration system’s framework.
Highlighting a “marked increase in residence permits,” they assert that the security aspect may be compromised, jeopardizing the control of irregular immigration, network surveillance, and the system’s integrity. They call for ensured control, supervision, and operational capacity.
Regarding family reunification for immigrants, which has been a point of criticism, the party labels it a potential channel for a significant increase in the immigrant population, directly impacting public services and public perception of immigration.
